
Slow Wi-Fi can be a major buzzkill, whether you're streaming your favorite Netflix series, scrolling through YouTube, or joining a critical work-from-home meeting. The culprit? Often, it’s the devices sitting too close to your router, interfering with its signal. Here’s a list of eight common household devices you should keep away from your router to supercharge your Wi-Fi speed.
1. Microwave Ovens: The Silent Signal Killer
Your microwave might be great for reheating leftovers, but it’s a Wi-Fi nightmare. Microwaves operate on the same 2.4 GHz frequency as many routers, causing interference when they’re running. Keep your router far from the kitchen or switch to a 5 GHz band to dodge this issue.
2. Cordless Phones: Old-School Tech, New-Age Problems
Cordless phones, especially older models, can disrupt Wi-Fi signals by emitting their own radio waves. Place your router away from your phone’s base station to avoid signal clashes and maintain a steady connection.
3. Bluetooth Devices: Tiny but Troublesome
Bluetooth gadgets like speakers, earbuds, or keyboards can wreak havoc on your Wi-Fi. They also use the 2.4 GHz frequency, leading to signal overlap. Keep these devices at a distance or turn off Bluetooth when not in use to free up your Wi-Fi bandwidth.
4. Baby Monitors: Watching Baby, Blocking Wi-Fi
Baby monitors are essential for parents, but their signals can interfere with your router’s performance. Position your router in a different area of the house, ideally away from the nursery, to ensure both your baby and your Wi-Fi stay happy.
5. TVs and media Players: Streaming Saboteurs
Smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku or fire Stick often sit near routers for convenience, but their electronics can cause electromagnetic interference. Give your router some breathing room by placing it a few feet away from your entertainment setup.
6. fish Tanks: Watery Wi-Fi Woes
Water is a notorious Wi-Fi blocker, and fish tanks are no exception. The water, glass, and pumps in aquariums can absorb or scatter Wi-Fi signals. Keep your router elevated and away from your aquatic friends to maintain a strong connection.
7. Refrigerators and Large Appliances: Cold, Hard Interference
Large metal appliances like refrigerators or washing machines can reflect and weaken Wi-Fi signals. Position your router in an open space, away from these bulky obstructions, to ensure optimal signal strength throughout your home.
8. Laptops and PCs: Too Close for Comfort
While laptops and PCs rely on Wi-Fi, having them too close to the router can create interference, especially if they’re running heavy applications or have active cooling fans. Maintain some distance to prevent signal degradation and keep your speeds blazing.
Bonus Tip: Optimize Router Placement
Beyond keeping these devices away, place your router in a central, elevated location with minimal walls or obstructions. This maximizes coverage and minimizes interference, giving you the
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